Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
If you have blurry vision and thin corneas, you may not qualify for LASIK.
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is an effective alternative that produces quality results similar to LASIK.
See for yourself how the doctors at Cornea Associates of Texas expertly perform PRK for patients in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Plano, TX.
How Does PRK Compare to LASIK? Differences in Treatment
Both PRK and LASIK are laser eye surgeries that correct refractive errors. Most patients can see clearly without contact lenses or glasses after undergoing either of the refractive surgeries.
PRK
During a photorefractive keratectomy, an excimer laser is used to remove the outermost layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Our eye surgeon then reshapes the remaining corneal tissue. A protective contact lens is placed in the eye to help with epithelial healing. The contact lens is removed a few days after the procedure and the epithelial layer will continue to grow back. This surgery takes longer to recover from than LASIK but provides similar vision correction results. PRK is a great alternative for patients who do not qualify for LASIK.
LASIK
In this refractive surgery, our doctors create a flap in the outermost layer of the cornea. This corneal flap is peeled back, allowing the laser to reshape the cornea. The corneal flap is closed after the procedure, eliminating the need for sutures. In the weeks following LASIK surgery, the corneal flap remains close and heals independently. Since the entire cornea is not removed, patients recover faster from LASIK than they recover from PRK.
Candidates for PRK
Photorefractive keratectomy surgery is a good alternative for people who need to correct refractive errors but do not qualify for LASIK.
People who are younger than 21, who are pregnant or nursing, or have a serious medical condition like uncontrolled diabetes or glaucoma are poor candidates for PRK. The eye doctors at our Dallas, TX, area centers will look to see if you have:
Thin Corneas
If your corneas are too thin, it can be too difficult to create a corneal flap, disqualifying patients from LASIK. A thin cornea is not an issue with PRK, as the outermost corneal layer is removed, allowing the doctor to reshape the underlying tissue.
An Active Lifestyle
People who have physically active jobs or participate in sports are good candidates for PRK. Certain activities can increase your risk of dislodging your corneal flap. PRK is recommended for those who have an active lifestyle, minimizing their risk of corneal complications.
Stable Eye Prescription
Candidates for PRK need to have the same prescription eyeglasses or contacts for at least a year. The more stable your eyesight, the lower the need for a second refractive surgery procedure to fine-tune your vision correction results.
Would You Like to Improve Your Vision? Contact Cornea Associates of Texas Today
Our experienced surgeons can diagnose your eyes and determine if you're a candidate for PRK or LASIK. Our cornea experts in Dallas, TX, offer free consultations for patients who want to learn more about their eye health and the options they have to correct their vision. We offer financing and accept all major credit cards.
With additional locations in Plano and Fort Worth, Cornea Associates of Texas serves patients in the greater Dallas area. People from Irving, University Park, Highland Park, and the surrounding area trust our doctors to correct their eyes through surgical and nonsurgical treatments.
Contact our centers through our website or call:
(214) 692-0146
Top Reviews For our Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas, TX, Offices
taran1900
2022
My eye surgeon, Dr. Beebe has been terrific. The staff is also wonderful. Always friendly and professional. I highly recommend Dr. Beebe and Cornea Assoiciates of Texas.
View on GoogleJordan
2022
I’ve had the best experience with the staff and Doctors. If you have any doubts about getting surgery this is the place to answer all your questions and concerns.
View on GoogleBenefits of PRK
Better Vision
After PRK surgery, most patients achieve at least 20/40 vision and usually don't need contacts or glasses.
Lasting Results
PRK results are permanent. However, patients may eventually need to use glasses for reading or at night as their vision naturally weakens with age.
Effective LASIK Alternative
PRK can greatly improve vision for people who don't qualify for LASIK. While it has a longer recovery time than LASIK, PRK has many of the same benefits.
PRK Treatment
After a consultation at our Plano, Fort Worth, or Dallas, TX, offices, our eye doctors will determine if you're a candidate for LASIK or PRK. If you're approved for PRK surgery, here's what to expect:
Patients report feeling little to no pain after their surgery.
Cornea Associates of Texas has locations in Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas. Our eye specialists serve people all over North Texas, including University Park, Highland Park, and Garland.
Recovering from PRK Surgery How to Protect Your Eyes After Treatment
During your recovery time, it is important that you follow the directions given to you by your eye doctor. Patients can expect similar instructions after their eye surgery:
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
You may experience itchy or dry eyes after your procedure. Touching your eyes can cause infections and other complications.
Protect Your Eyes
Patients should avoid sunlight and bright light so they don't squint or strain their eyes. Wear sunglasses when outside and protective eyewear to avoid eye injury.
No Swimming
Pools, hot tubs, and bodies of water can cause infection during the healing process.
No Strenuous Exercise
Physical activity should be at a minimum for the first few days after your surgery. Contact sports should be suspended for a few weeks as well.
Use Prescription Eye Drops
Dry eyes can be difficult to deal with after your treatment. Eye drops will help the healing process and keep your eyes lubricated.
While some patients may notice an immediate change in their vision after PRK surgery, it can take up to six months for your eyes to completely stabilize. Most patients can resume daily activities within 24 hours of their PRK surgery.
More Top Reviews For Our Plano, Fort Worth, and Dallas, TX, Offices
Atallah Zitoon
2021
They did great job. Dr. Zaffos was amazing. I was wearing glasses and now I don't I am extremely happy with the result. That's after different doctor at different clinic told me I can't get the advance lens and will have to wear glasses after surgery.
View on GoogleLHS
2021
Hearing you need cataract surgery may be unsettling. But Dr. Bowman and his staff guide you through everything from the diagnosis, setting up your surgical date, explaining what they are doing, and filling your insurance claim.
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